- These laws seem to have been intended, 1. As a test of the
people's obedience, as Adam was forbidden to eat of the tree of
knowledge; and to teach them self-denial, and the government of
their appetites. 2. To keep the Israelites distinct from other
nations. Many also of these forbidden animals were objects of
superstition and idolatry to the heathen. 3. The people were
taught to make distinctions between the holy and unholy in their
companions and intimate connexions. 4. The law forbad, not only
the eating of the unclean beasts, but the touching of them.
Those who would be kept from any sin, must be careful to avoid
all temptations to it, or coming near it. The exceptions are
very minute, and all were designed to call forth constant care
and exactness in their obedience; and to teach us to obey.
Whilst we enjoy our Christian liberty, and are free from such
burdensome observances, we must be careful not to abuse our
liberty. For the Lord hath redeemed and called his people, that
they may be holy, even as he is holy. We must come out, and be
separate from the world; we must leave the company of the
ungodly, and all needless connexions with those who are dead in
sin; we must be zealous of good works devoted followers of God,
and companions of his people.
hat animals were clean and unclean.